Study Guides: Lagaan

(Ashutosh Gowariker, 2001; 224 minutes)

  • Screenwriters: Kumar Dave, et al.
  • Cinematographer: Anil Mehta
  • Editor: Ballu Saluja
  • Web site: www.lagaan.com
 
US Reviews of Lagaan
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Abstract by "malvika" (adapted from imdb.com)

Initially I was warned about the length of the movie--3hrs and 50 minutes--but believe me, it's worth it. There is a refreshing Indian-ness about the movie, which is welcome after a recent bout of Hollywood remakes in Hindi that have become such eye-sores. The emotion that Indians share about cricket is effectively taken advantage of (the cricket match played between villagers of Champaner and the British officers which forms the climax, extends to about an hour and a half). The best part of the movie is the characterization of the eleven players (villagers). Aamir Khan is at his best in this movie, and Gracie Singh lives the role of Gauri. The acting talents of the British actors, esp. that of the officer Captain Russel (Paul Blackthorne), is notable. There was never a boring moment in the film, the dialogues and songs' lyrics are very meaningful. And lastly I must appreciate the work behind the entire cricket sequence as it covers most of the aspects of the game--not to mention match fixing, sledging, and body-line bowling--making it gripping till the last ball! A must see for Indian cricket fans!

Primary Characters

  • Bhuvan (Aamir Khan)
  • Gauri (Gracy Singh)
  • Elizabeth Russell (Rachel Shelley)
  • Capt. Andrew Russell (Paul Blackthorne)

Discussion Questions

  1. Does the way the British play the game in the early stages of the film fit Appadurai's description of cricket's role in Victorian England?
  2. Appadurai argues that the "erotics of nationhood" underlie the current popularity of cricket in India. Does this concept fit Lagaan's representation of cricket's role in the village?
  3. How is the Rajah treated by the film? Is the audience encouraged to see him as an enemy, friend, or something more complicated?
  4. How are gender roles in the Indian and the colonial societies portrayed?